The back of your hair is likely flat due to a combination of factors, primarily pressure, product buildup, and hair type.
Contributing Factors to Flat Hair in the Back:
-
Pressure: This is the most common cause. When you sleep, sit, or lean back, the hair at the back of your head gets compressed. This constant pressure flattens the hair, especially if it's fine or thin.
-
Product Buildup:
- Weighting Down Hair: Sebum (natural scalp oil), hair products (gel, mousse, hairspray), dirt, and other impurities can accumulate, weighing down individual hair strands.
- Concentration at the Roots: These residues tend to concentrate at the roots, making the hair appear flatter and greasier at the scalp.
- Hair Type Impact: This is particularly noticeable with fine or straight hair, as oils and products can easily travel down the hair shaft.
-
Hair Type:
- Fine and Thin Hair: These hair types are naturally more prone to flatness because they lack volume and are easily weighed down.
- Straight Hair: Straight hair doesn't have natural waves or curls to create volume, so it can appear flatter than curly or wavy hair.
-
Long Hair: Longer hair is heavier, so gravity pulls it down, especially at the back where pressure adds to the problem.
-
Improper Washing Techniques:
- Not Rinsing Thoroughly: Leaving shampoo or conditioner residue in your hair can weigh it down.
- Using Heavy Conditioners at the Roots: This can make the hair at the back of your head appear greasy and flat.
Solutions to Combat Flat Hair in the Back:
-
Change Your Sleeping Position: Try sleeping on your side or stomach to avoid direct pressure on the back of your head. A silk or satin pillowcase can also help reduce friction and flattening.
-
Use a Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner: These products are designed to add body and lift to your hair.
-
Clarify Your Hair Regularly: Use a clarifying shampoo every few weeks to remove product buildup.
-
Apply Products Strategically: Avoid applying heavy products like conditioners and oils directly to the roots. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends.
-
Backcomb: Gently backcomb the hair at the crown of your head to create volume.
-
Use Dry Shampoo: Dry shampoo can absorb excess oil and add volume to the roots.
-
Haircuts: Getting layers cut into your hair can distribute the weight and create more volume. A shorter haircut, in general, will have more volume.
-
Blow Dry Upside Down: Blow drying your hair upside down can lift the roots and add volume.
-
Change Your Part: Switching your part can instantly add volume by lifting the hair at the roots.
